Alleged Defection: Akogun Denies Rift with Folarin, Dismisses Report as False

A chieftain of the (APC) in Oyo State, Hon. Olatunji Akeem Akogun, has dismissed as false and misleading a media report alleging that he had defected from the camp of Distinguished Senator to join a new political alliance.

The report, titled “I Will Help You Dismantle Folarin” — Top Folarin Ally, Akogun, Allegedly Defects to Zacch-Alli Camp, claimed that Akogun attended a high-level political meeting and pledged allegiance to a coalition aimed at weakening Folarin’s political structure.

Reacting through his media aide, Mr. Balogun Tajudeen Gbolade, Akogun described the publication as “entirely false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to sow discord where none exists.”

The statement stressed that there is no rift between Akogun and Senator Folarin, noting that their relationship remains cordial, respectful, and firmly rooted in mutual trust and shared political ideals. It added that Senator Folarin holds Akogun in high regard and recognizes his educational background and capacity to contribute meaningfully to public service.

It further questioned the credibility of claims that he was ever described as “illiterate,” asking how a well-educated individual with solid academic credentials could reasonably be labelled as such.

Providing details, the statement noted that Akogun holds an OND in Financial Studies and an HND in Banking and Finance from the Polytechnic Ibadan, as well as a B.Sc. in Public Administration from the Olabisi Onabanjo, Ago-Iwoye. He is also currently pursuing a Master’s degree in the same institution.

Dismissing allegations of attending any political meeting with other stakeholders, Akogun clarified that he was not present at any such gathering. While affirming his respect for the Olubadan of Ibadanland, he stated that the last time he met the monarch was during a Sallah homage paid alongside Senator Folarin after the recent Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.

“As a committed chieftain of the APC, all meetings and engagements attended by Hon. Akogun are strictly for the unity, stability, and progress of the party,” the statement added.

The statement also described allegations of defection or alignment with any opposing coalition as baseless fabrications intended to create unnecessary tension within the party. It denied any suggestion of grievances, insisting that claims of political disagreements or derogatory remarks are unfounded.

It urged members of the public, party faithful, and stakeholders to disregard what it described as fake news, warning that such misinformation is designed to destabilize existing relationships within the party.

Akogun reaffirmed his loyalty to Senator Folarin and his continued commitment to the unity and progress of the APC in Oyo State.

— Mr. Balogun Tajudeen Gbolade
Media Aide to Hon. Olatunji Akeem Akogun